first looks - intersections
In my earlier 'Streetwalker' blog series, I frequently expressed the ambition to expand the boundaries of the followICM technique. With increased understanding, I've now ventured beyond the single-subject model, aiming to broaden the scope and weave more intricate stories.
This motivation led to a project directed toward capturing the relative motion between groups of individuals, concentrated on locations where the flow of human activity naturally converges. Transport hubs, busy street crossings, and marketplaces became the focus of this project, which I’ve named INTERSECTIONS.
Example where the relative motion of a secondary subject (to the right of camera) has resulted in decreased definition.
The progression of the project occurred somewhat organically. During the ‘Streetwalker’ phase, there were many instances where additional subjects entered into the frame, by choice or fate. These early attempts to broaden the story showed promise but introduced a new set of challenges.
Each element added to the scene increases both complexity and unpredictability. While the outcomes for static elements like buildings and trees can be somewhat anticipated, the inclusion of moving objects (vehicles, people) adds another layer of unpredictability. This only increases as exposure time is lengthened.
However, it is the addition of these dynamic elements that intrigued me the most. How would the relative motion between objects (both in speed and direction) shape the image?
It quickly became obvious that the most predictable results occurred when key subjects (and the camera) moved in a similar direction and pace. As this varied, so did the level of abstraction, being amplified by increasing exposure times.
Since movement within a busy environment is largely unpredictable, anticipation has proven to be a key ingredient for success. In such bustling environments I’ve taken one of two approaches.
Follow a key subject to preserve a relatively higher level of detail in that element.
Use a "follow the crowd" approach, which generally results in a greater degree of abstraction across the image.
Each approach yields its own distinct outcome, and I continue to explore and deepen my understanding of these results.
Technical details
All images were captured using variations of the followICM technique (detailed here), using the Spectre app on my iPhone. Spectre integrates seamlessly with the native Live Photo feature, allowing for longer exposures (typically set at 3 seconds) that can be "rolled back" to an optimal frame/exposure time.
Here is a short Live Photo video captured using the method described earlier. It demonstrates the impact the relative motions between camera and moving objects have on the final outcome. Notice the significant difference between subjects moving in a similar direction/speed to the camera versus those moving in the otherwise, and the more subtle effect on more distant static elements.
Sample playback from LivePhoto demonstrating how an image is built by Spectre during a long exposure
Conclusion
Despite significant challenges, I continue to enjoy the process and learn from the results. Watching images take shape on the screen never fails to excite, and although failures have been many the knowledge gained from those allows me to better identify potential opportunities.
Below is a slideshow/gallery showcasing a broad set of results from my experimentation. The outcomes of the ‘follow the subject’ and ‘follow the crowd’ methods described earlier may or may not be evident, but all were shot using the same followICM technique.
I encourage viewers to look beyond what is most evident in each image, seeking out the subtle nuances that help broaden the tale.
Feedback is truly appreciated, and questions are always welcome.
